Mughal Mosque, Garden and Serai - Qutb Minar, Delhi

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Delhi, India's capital, boasts a rich heritage of around 1300 monuments, and among them, Qutb Minar stands out as a prominent landmark. Beyond its iconic presence, the Qutb Minar complex harbors numerous lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored. In this article, we delve into some of these hidden gems within the Qutb Minar complex.

Mughal Mosque

Nestled near the eastern entrance gateway of Qutb Minar, the Mughal Mosque is a charming, albeit modest, structure. Featuring a prayer hall with three compartments, each crowned by an onion-shaped dome, the mosque showcases architectural elements typical of the later Mughal period (18th or 19th century CE). Despite its historical significance, detailed information about its origin and builders remains elusive. Referred to as the Tarikh-ul-Islam mosque, it awaits further exploration and documentation by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Mughal Garden


Adjoining the Mughal Mosque, the aptly named Mughal Garden unfolds in the pattern of Charbagh, reminiscent of the Mughal era. Designed as a square plan, the garden is subdivided into four quarters by paved walkways known as Khiyaban. This verdant oasis also belongs to the later Mughal period, offering a tranquil retreat within the bustling Qutb Minar complex.

Mughal Serai
Adjacent to the Mughal Mosque, the Mughal Serai, meaning a place of accommodation akin to today's guest house, is a small yet intriguing structure. Aligned with the architectural aesthetics of the later Mughal period, it stands as a testament to the bygone era's hospitality. While the ASI provides limited details about this site, the Mughal Serai invites visitors to uncover its historical secrets.

Embark on a journey of exploration within the Qutb Minar complex to discover these overlooked marvels, adding depth to your understanding of Delhi's architectural legacy. 

Happy travelling.


Location: Qutab Minar, Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi 110016, India

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